Civil Air Patrol teenager obtains private pilot license from FFA

Micah LaVanchy, a 17-year-old resident of rural Jackson, recently obtained his private pilot license from the FAA.

LaVanchy took a test issued by the Civil Air Patrol and is now an officially recognized CAP pilot.

He is a cadet/lt. colonel, Missouri Wing's Cadet of the Year 2005, and a past cadet commander of the local Civil Air Patrol Squadron, the Trail of Tears Composite Squadron, located in Cape Girardeau.

LaVanchy flew the squadron's 172 Skyhawk at Cape Girardeau Regional Airport for the majority of his flight training. In addition to the training with flight instructors, LaVanchy received foundational flight instruction, guidance and encouragement from squadron pilots, Capt. Mark Rhodes and 1st Lt. Timothy Griffith.

He is a high school junior educated at home. LaVanchy is the son of Neil and Rita LaVanchy of Jackson.